HVCC Looking To Get Turkeys To 600 Families

VERNON, CT — Friday marked the beginning of the Hockanum Valley Community Council's annual Gobble Up Good Thanksgiving Turkey Drive that aims to service more than 600 area families.

The efforts will run from Nov. 15 to Nov. 22. Community members can visit Stop & Shop locations on Pitkin Road and Windsorville Road in Vernon to purchase and donate turkeys.

HVCC officials said the demand for food assistance is on the rise in our community. Recent research by Feeding America notes that numerous families, including those classified as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed), face "significant challenges" in meeting basic needs and often do not qualify for federal food assistance programs such as SNAP, they added.

"HVCC's food pantry is a vital resource for these families, offering not just food, but hope and support during challenging times," HVCC officials said.

"We see the difference every donation makes, and every turkey donated is more than a meal, It's a
gesture of kindness and community," HVCC Chief Executive Officer David O’Rourke said. "With the community's support, we can ensure that no family in our area goes without a Thanksgiving meal."

HVCC provides essential services, including the Food Pantry, Dial-a-Ride Program, Counseling, and Case Management services to our community. Celebrating over 55 years of service, HVCC continues to embody its mission of health, healing, and hope, striving to meet the evolving needs of our residents.